WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Putting gifts under the tree for families in need is the goal of a local nonprofit organization.
Valley Santa is gearing up for its 41st year of giving.
Volunteers help push along the process of gift wrapping for Valley Santa.
The organization has been making Christmas miracles come true for more than 40 years and this year, they're getting ready to help more families than ever before.
"Two years ago we did a little under 5,000, last year we shopped for 5,400 kids and this year in the middle of November we've already processed 3,500 kids," said Valley Santa Inc. Board Vice President and Coordinator Sarah Borland.
The program gifts each child a toy of their choosing, and a book.
"Every child that writes in is shopped for individually," Borland stated.
Volunteers meet at Boscov's in Wilkes-Barre three times a week to shop.
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Those gifts are wrapped and then delivered.
Sarah Borland, Valley Santa's board vice president and coordinator says for the kids, the experience is much more than just a gift under the tree.
"Presents aren't just material, it isn't about just getting a Barbie, it's about being seen being heard, and being acknowledged," Borland explained.
The program wouldn't be possible without the support of people who care.
"We couldn't do it without the community. We couldn't do it without this valley," Borland continued.
Through the help of donations and volunteers, valley Santa continues to give back year after year.
Registration for gifts closes on December 17.
The program is open for kids up to age 12 in Luzerne County.
